Reyna raring to go with City's NY expansion

Claudio Reyna is keen to get started after being named as the man to drive Manchester City's expansion into the United States.

Reyna, the former USA and City captain, has been appointed as the director of football for the club's Major League Soccer venture, New York City FC.

City, in partnership with baseball giants New York Yankees, this week bought the 20th MLS franchise, which will enter the American competition in 2015.

Reyna, who hails from the area, is effectively the organisation's first employee and will be responsible for building a coaching staff and playing squad.

The 39-year-old said: "It is really a dream.

"There are so many soccer fans here and being able to be responsible for the building of a club, not just a team, with the support of Man City and the Yankees - I can't wait to get started.

"Today [Wednesday] is a great day but I can't wait to get to work.

"Being so close to home and to be part of the professional game is fantastic. MLS has grown so much, even since I finished.

"Just to be a part of that growth and representing New York city is a privilege and an honour."

Reyna is to stand down from his role as youth technical director with US Soccer to take up the position.

He said: "At the beginning of this year they made me aware they were in negotiations and were interested in doing this.

"I had a meal with them and an introduction to their organisation.

"It's changed quite a bit since I was over there. They are really nice people and it was an easy sell to me."

Reyna made 87 appearances for City between 2003 and 2007 after previous spells with Rangers and Sunderland. He finished his career in MLS with New York Red Bulls.

The new club will allow City to grow their brand in America, increase their revenue streams and possibly find new players.

Reyna said: "There's going to be clear opportunities where we can work together and bring players across."

Reyna was unexpectedly unveiled by City as they held a media event to formally announce the MLS venture at Lexington Academy - a school they have supported over the past three years - in Harlem.

City are to be the majority partner in the new MLS club with the Yankees bringing their considerable commercial clout and knowledge of New York.

The team will begin competition at a temporary home as they make plans to build their own stadium, with the borough of Queens to favoured location.